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Free Legal Aid — Tebeka in Jerusalem
Tebeka — "Advocate of Justice" in Amharic — provides free legal counsel and representation to Ethiopian-Israelis (1,000+ inquiries/year). Specialty lines: workers' rights, racism, law enforcement, children's rights.
About Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Israel's capital, hosts a large Israeli-Ethiopian community concentrated historically in the Gondar neighbourhood in the north and with significant presence in Kiryat HaYovel and other areas. The city is home to the Centre for Ethiopian Jewish Heritage and several traditional synagogues led by kessim, alongside a broad housing market.
What cases does Tebeka handle?
- Workers' rights — wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, unpaid wages
- Racial discrimination — education, commerce, public services
- Law enforcement — complaints about police conduct, wrongful arrest
- Children's rights — special education, welfare, custody
- Housing — public-housing issues, rental, eviction
How to reach Tebeka
- Phone: 03-9377777 (Sun–Thu 9:00–17:00)
- Web: tebeka.org.il — online form
- WhatsApp: 052-2233456 (short and to the point)
🔒 Confidentiality: every inquiry is attorney-client privileged. Tebeka cannot disclose details without your consent. 💰 Cost: zero. Tebeka is donor-funded — no cost to inquirers.
When to reach out immediately
- Arrest by police
- Termination from work
- Domestic violence (also via 105)
- Suspected discrimination during a public-service interaction
Ethiopian community in Jerusalem
- Community population
- ~30,000
- Share of city
- ~4%
- Main neighbourhoods
- גונדר, קרית היובל, פסגת זאב
- Community services
- מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP
More rights in Jerusalem
This right in other cities
FAQ — Jerusalem
- How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Jerusalem?
- The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Jerusalem numbers approximately ~30,000 residents — around ~4% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: גונדר, קרית היובל, פסגת זאב.
- How do I claim Free Legal Aid — Tebeka in Jerusalem?
- Contact Tebeka — they operate nationally including in Jerusalem. For support: מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP.
- What community support is available in Jerusalem for this right?
- In Jerusalem, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP.
Related rights
Chronic Disease Prevention — Tene Briut
Prevention programs for diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease — culturally adapted for the community. Hebrew/Amharic workshops, dietary guidance, exercise instructors. Via Tene Briut.
Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
Anyone who does not speak Hebrew is entitled to an interpreter in any legal proceeding — a constitutional right. Government offices (BTL, Interior Ministry, Aliyah Ministry) must also provide translation. The right is free and at state expense.
Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
The Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations. Entitlements include a mobility allowance, tax benefits, and NII cost reduction.
Legal Protection From Domestic Violence — Guide for Ethiopian-Israeli Women
Any woman suffering domestic violence can receive a protection order the same day — regardless of visa status, length of marriage, or financial situation. The state must provide emergency housing and living expenses.